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# Network and Operations Lead

- **Company:** First Bus
- **Location:** UK (Remote available)
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Network Planning and Design
- **Published:** July 10, 2026
- **Apply:** https://uk.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=ab57d6ca146bc2b9

## About the Role

We're looking for a highly analytical and commercially minded leader with experience in network planning, franchise bidding or transport operations., * Significant experience in network planning, franchise bids or operational transport environments

 * A strong understanding of franchise specifications, compliance requirements and public procurement processes
 * Experience developing data-led, operationally deliverable solutions
 * Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
 * Strong analytical, modelling and problem-solving capabilities
 * The ability to work at pace within a complex and evolving environment
 * Proven experience leading cross-functional teams and delivering successful outcomes

It Would Be Great If You Also Have

 * Experience within bus franchising or public service contracts
 * Knowledge of scheduling, resource modelling and operational planning
 * Understanding of governance, risk management and contract requirements

## Description

As our Network & Operations Lead, you'll take ownership of network design, compliance and operational solution development across franchise bidding activity.

Working closely with colleagues across the business, you'll ensure that proposed networks are fully compliant, operationally deliverable and aligned to client requirements. You'll play a pivotal role in translating complex franchise specifications into robust, evidence-based solutions that can be mobilised successfully and sustained in operation.

You'll also lead the development of operational delivery and customer plans, ensuring our bids are not only competitive but ready for implementation from day one.

What You'll Be Doing

 * Leading the development of compliant, customer-focused and operationally credible network proposals across franchise bids
 * Ensuring network solutions meet tender specifications, contractual requirements and local authority expectations
 * Developing integrated operational delivery and customer plans that support successful service delivery
 * Providing assurance, governance and oversight of network assumptions, data and modelling
 * Working collaboratively across multiple functions to develop end-to-end bid solutions
 * Identifying and mitigating risks while presenting clear recommendations to stakeholders
 * Supporting the creation of mobilisation-ready solutions that can transition seamlessly into operation
 * Driving continuous improvement, innovation and the use of digital tools and AI to enhance bid development
 * Leading, coaching and developing team capability while fostering a culture of collaboration and delivery excellence


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